Best 4 Wheel Walker With a Seat in 2022

best walker with a seat

A four wheel walker allows for maximum stability without slowing you down. If you have some trouble getting around on your own and need a little support, then these are ideal.

Whether this is your first time buying a 4 wheeled walker or you’re simply looking for a change from your current walker, we know how challenging the entire buying process can be.

Our goal is to make things as simple as possible, so we’ve rounded up seven of the best 4 wheel walkers on the market. Enjoy!

4 Wheel Rollators

Model
Weight
Weight Capacity
More Information
Drive Medical’s Nitro Euro
drive medical nitro 4 wheel walker
17.5 pounds
300 lbs
buy now
Vive Folding Rollator
Vive 4 Wheel Medical Rolling Walker with Seat
20.6 pounds
300 lbs
buy now from Amazon
Medline Premium Empower
Medline Premium Empower Rollator Walker with Seat
17 pounds
300 lbs
buy now from Amazon
Hugo Portable
Hugo Elite Rollator Walker with Seat
21.2 pounds
300 lbs
buy now from Amazon
Drive Medical Steel Walker
Drive medical steel walker
18.6 pounds
300 lbs
buy now from Amazon
ProBasics 4 Wheel Walker
ProBasic Heavy Duty Steel Bariatric Rollator
18 pounds
300 lbs
buy now from Amazon

7 Best 4 Wheel Walker Rollators With a Seat

1. Drive Medical Nitro Euro Style Rollator

drive medical nitro 4 wheel walker for seniors
Drive Medical Nitro walker

Drive Medical’s Nitro Euro is ideal for those who travel often and need a very portable walker.

Featuring an aluminum frame, this model is lightweight, and its cross-brace design allows for easy folding and extra stability.

Two large 10 inch caster wheels in the front make it easier to steer and enhances maneuverability. The large front wheels Nitro Euro is ideal for use indoors or outdoors and can easily maneuver a variety of terrains.

Like all of the other rolling walkers on our list, this model has a built-in chair with backrest. There is a lot of storage space in the zippered storage bag that is also included. It can also be easily removed if it is not needed. A saddle bag attachment helps keep the pouch securely in place even when it is is folded.

The Nitro Euro has a grip brake system with cables that are designed to be inside the frame for extra safety.

Weight capacity with this model is 300 lbs, and the handle height is adjustable between 33.5” and 38.25” in size. The backrest is height adjustable as well to maximize support and comfort. The generously padded backrest is also another welcome feature.

In our opinion, the Drive Medical Nitro is the best 4 wheel walker with a seat for seniors you can buy in 2022

Click here to purchase on Amazon

2. Vive’s Easy Folding Walker Rollator

Vive 4 Wheel Medical Rolling Walker with Seat
Vive 4 Wheeled Rolling Walker with Seat

Vive’s rolling walker is a mobility aid for adults that has a very unique design. While it appears bulky at first glance, it’s just well-padded and provides everything you could want in a rollator, from a chair and bag to the safe dual braking system.

Vive’s rollator features:

  • Center strap collapsing option
  • Adjustable handle height
  • Ergonomic hand grips
  • Removable rear legs and front wheels
  • Folding options for easy storage
  • Dual braking system for ultimate in safety
  • Sturdy, padded seat and backrest

Vive’s rollator has one of the best braking systems. The dual braking system on the hand grips keeps the rollator firmly in place. A cane holder is equipped to the rollator to allow for every more mobility options.

Offering a seat storage bag, the Vive rollator can store all of your items safely: keys, wallet, drinks or anything else you have.

The sturdy backrest is wide and comfortable. The padded seat is extra-wide to provide added security and comfort to users. Foldable, you can remove the front wheels and fold up the rear legs for easy transport.

A major drawback of Vive’s unit is that it’s only able to hold users up to 250 pounds. While the unit weights 20 pounds, I was hoping that it would be able to accommodate heavier seniors. If the weight capacity is not a concern for you, this is definitely a unique rollator that has supreme braking power for users.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

3. Medline Premium Empower Rollator

Medline Premium Empower Rollator Walker with Seat
Medline Premium Empower Rollator Walker with Seat

Medline’s first mobility rollator walker on our list. This model comes in sleek blue color, and it has 8-inch wheels to make going on all terrain – indoor and outdoor easy and safe. Empower is designed with an extra-wide memory foam chair that provides supreme comfort when sitting.

The backrest can be flipped to act like arm rests for additional comfort.

Filled with extras, this rollator includes:

  • Reflective tape for added safety
  • Weight capacity: 300 pounds
  • Storage tote for accessories (under the seat)
  • Foldable, adjustable cup holder
  • Tray organizer
  • Lifted seat support for easier walking
  • Loop-style, squeeze brakes
  • Easy folding option
  • Adjustable handle height

Weighing 17 pounds, Empower’s sturdy design is able to hold users up to 300 lbs on it’s padded seat. A latch is all that’s needed to move the seat out of the way for step-in support. When the chair is kept down, you can open the padded seat to store all of your items.

The large wheels offer more than enough options for going over grass, walking indoors or walking on gravel.

Add in the cup holder, and it’s one of the most practical rollators on the market. You can also adjust the handles and seat to match the user’s needs. When it comes time to transport your rollator, fold the unit up and nest the four wheels together.

It doesn’t get any easier than this folding walker to take with you.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

4. Drive Medical Four Wheel Walker Rollator

Drive Medical Aluminum Rollator Fold Up
Drive Medical Aluminum Rollator

This Drive Medical four wheel walker has a fold-up removable back support and a convenient wired basket to hold your belongings. Affordable in price, this model features a sturdy steel frame and weighs just 17.9 pounds.

The nice thing about this rolling walker is that it offers numerous features to make your life easier.

  • A set of hand brakes are conveniently located on the handlebars for immediate stability. The brakes can be pressed to stop temporarily, or they can be pushed down to lock it in place.
  • A removable, fold-up padded seat gives you a place to sit while you’re out and about. The seat also has a backrest, which has added comfort and support as you rest.
  • An easy-turn lever is located on the handlebar for quick and easy height adjustment.
  • Folds up easily for storage and transport.
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs

The 7.5 inch wheels are large, sturdy and great for both indoor and outdoor use.

You’ll love the independence this rollator offers. The height of the handlebars can be adjusted with the simple turn of a lever just beneath the handles. The brakes can be locked right from the handles, so you can stop and rest as needed. The included wired basket also gives you a place to hold or store your belongings while you’re out.

The handles on this rolling walker are ergonomically designed, so they can be used for long periods of time without worry that your hands or wrists will ache.

If you’re looking for an affordable rollator that’s ideal for either indoor or outdoor use, this Drive Medical four wheel rolling walker is a great choice.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

5. Drive Medical Steel Four Wheel Walker

Drive medical steel walker
Drive Medical steel walker

Another great model from Drive Medical, this rollator is made of heavy duty steel and also offers a fold-up back support.

The primary differences between this model and the previous are the hand brakes and the storage compartment (more on this shortly).

This heavy duty rollator offers a seamless padded seat with a zippered storage pouch underneath. The pouch adds extra security and privacy when storing personal items. This mode does not have a wired basket attachment.

The 8 inch wheels make this product great for both indoor and outdoor use, and they’re non-marring for added convenience.

The ergonomic handlebars feature deluxe loop locks, so you can lock it in place. The brakes on this model are a bit different from the previous model, but still improve the safety of this rolling walker.

The padded seat rest offers you a place to sit and rest when you’re out with friends or family. The built-in backrest is also foldable, so you can put it away when necessary. You can even remove the backrest if you prefer.

The seat is hinged and can be lifted up for easy access to the zippered storage pouch underneath. The pouch provides a safe and private place to store your wallet, purse or other personal belongings.

The height of the handlebars can be adjusted with ease thanks to the knob just under the handlebars. And when you’re ready to go home, just fold up your walker, and place it in the trunk of your car or the backseat. However, be advised that this heavy duty rollator walker may weigh more than others on the list.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

6. Hugo Portable 4 Wheel Walker

Hugo Elite Rollator Walker with Seat
Hugo Mobility Elite Rollator

Hugo’s portable rollator is one of the best on the market, but it comes at a higher price than the average walker (around $100 when you buy online). Available in blue, this walker features a built-in padded seat and sturdy frame with a backrest for added comfort.

Like the previous model, this one also features a convenient storage pouch underneath the seat. This storage pouch provides you with a safe and secure place to store your personal belongings.

The height of the handlebars can be adjusted on the frame with ease to ensure you maintain proper posture at all times. The grips on the handles are ergonomically designed to keep your hands at a natural angle as you move. This also gives you better access to the walker’s brakes.

Thanks to the tool-free assembly design, this walker frame is a snap to set up. It’s easy to fold, too, and fits nicely in most car trunks. Its light weight of 15.4 pounds makes it much easier to lift this walker into your vehicle.

Unlike many other rollators, the elite rollator walker is suitable for people with conditions that compromise balance. The larger 8 inch front wheels add to the stability of this walker. This model’s weight capacity is to 300 pounds.

The adjustable handle height can be set between 2’9 inches and 3’3 inches from handle to floor, which makes this rollator walker ideal for people between 5 feet and 6 feet 2 inches tall.

If your budget is bigger, the Hugo Mobility Elite Rollator walker is the smart choice and will give you years of use.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

7. ProBasics Lightweight Aluminum Rollator Walker

ProBasic Heavy Duty Steel Bariatric Rollator
ProBasic Heavy Duty Bariatric Rollator

ProBasic’s lightweight rollator is made from aluminum. This walking aid is ideal for everyone. From someone who just had surgery to the elderly and disabled. Offering stabilization when you walk, this model boasts an impressive 8 inch wheel height to offer easy movement on all terrain types.

The large wheels are accompanied by:

  • Built-in padded seat
  • Adjustable Handle
  • Lockable hand brakes for stability
  • 8 inch wheels for easy mobility
  • Easily folds for storage and transport
  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • Brake shoe

S-Day’s aluminum rollator walker includes the lightweight benefits of aluminum, yet this model is able to hold a weight capacity of 364 pounds. The height of the rollator can be adjusted between 34.25 inches and 39 inches tall, so the user can find a comfortable handle level.

Underneath the seat is a storing basket to hold all of your items securely, and the handles are ergonomic to fit comfortably in your hands.

If you want a light rollator that has four wheels large enough to go over most terrain yet folds up with ease, the S-Day is the perfect option.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

What Options Should I Consider in a 4 Wheel Walker?

There are many advantages to using walkers, but it’s important to find a model that’s a good fit for your personal needs. When comparing models, there are several things to consider:

Weight Capacity

Before looking at any other feature, it’s important to find out the weight capacity of the rolling walker. All mobility aids have weight limits, and it’s important to respect this limit. If you purchase a frame that cannot accommodate your weight, you risk damaging the walker and your safety.

There are walkers that support virtually every weight. Basic models can generally support up to 300 pounds, while a bariatric walker frame can support up to 1,000 pounds.

Height/Seat/Backrest Adjustability

A walker can only be effective if it’s the right height for your body. Look for one that offer adjustable features, such as handle, seat and backrest height. Adjustable features allow for a better fit, posture health and overall safety.

The walker should fit your arms comfortably to reduce stress on your back and shoulders. The top of the walker grip should be in line with the crease of the inside of your wrist.

Before you spend your hard-earned money, take some measurements to ensure that you choose a frame that will suit your height.

If you’re looking at a walker with a seat, make sure that you can adjust the seat the backrest to a comfortable height. Otherwise, it may be too difficult to sit down or stand up if the seat is too low. A bad fitting mobility aid can be detrimental to your health.

Braking System

Four-wheel rollators will come equipped with brakes for safety. These brakes will prevent the walker from rolling downhill and can also help you stop more quickly if you need to avoid an obstacle. These brakes are perfect when you need a bit of a rest and some stability.

Make sure that the braking system is easy to use, and that the parts are replaceable in case the system stops working.

A conventional 4-wheeled walker – not a rollator – won’t have a grip braking system because the walker is manually lifted and set down with each step.

Product Weight

Whether you choose a walker or rollator, it’s important to consider the weight of the unit – especially if you travel often.

Ideally, the walker should be light enough for you to lift up into the trunk of your vehicle. If you have assistance from a caregiver or family member, they should also be able to lift and handle the walker with relative ease.

The lighter the weight, the easier the portability. With that said, you don’t want a walker that is so light that it can easily be tipped or moved by the wind. Find a good balance between heft and lightness for easy – but safe – portability.

Accessories

Many walkers either come with accessories, or have accessories available to purchase separately.

Helpful accessories include:

  • Storage baskets and bags
  • Trays
  • Seatbelts
  • Pouches

Most of the accessories you find will be storage-related.

Do some research to see which accessories, if any, are available and which ones you may want to use with your walker.

Storage

Some walkers have storage, while others do not. You can purchase pouches and baskets separately, but if storage is a primary concern, you’ll want to look for a walker that already has built-in storage.

Think about the placement of the basket or pouch to ensure that it will be easily accessible for you. Also, consider how much storage you’ll need and whether you’ll need to purchase additional pouches or bags.

Can You Push Someone in a Rollator?

No. Wheeled walkers are a convenient way to get around, but they should not be mistaken for a wheelchair. Many wheeled walkers come with built-in seats, but these seats are only there to give you a place to rest and relax.

No one should ever push you while sitting in a rollator, nor should they push you while you’re using one. Wheeled walkers are walking aids only – they are not a transportation device. Most rollators do not have the weight capacity or strength to handle this type of movement.

The walker frame may become damaged, wheels may bend or fall apart if too much weight is placed on it.

If you are looking for a mobility aid that allows you to be pushed around while seated, you might consider a wheelchair or a rollator/transport chair hybrid.

How Much Does a 4 Wheel Walking Aid Cost?

The cost of a walker with four wheels can vary greatly depending on the model and quality of the unit, but they generally start at $100.

Rollators with more complex features, storage spaces, larger wheels, higher weight capacities and higher quality frames will cost more.

Depending on your medical insurance, the cost of your walker may be covered or come at a very low cost to you. You should talk to your health provider for more information.

Consider your budget, and look for a model that suits your needs and is high quality while remaining affordable.

Conclusion

These 7 walkers come in a wide range of prices, but the overall functionality is roughly the same. The Drive Medical Nitro Euro is the most expensive model, but offers more in terms of stability and convenience. The budget Drive Medical walker is one of the most affordable, but does not compromise on quality and has all of the basic functions you’ll need.

I hope this post helped you find the best 4 wheel walker with a seat in 2022.

KneeRover – The Best All Terrain Knee Walker in 2020

knee scooter
KneeRover HYBRID Knee Scooter with All Terrain
KneeRover HYBRID Knee Scooter with All Terrain

Easy to use, stable and comfortable, knee walkers are an excellent alternative to crutches. But finding a high quality knee walker isn’t easy. Finding a model that can maneuver all terrains is even harder.

The KneeRover steerable knee walker is designed with large wheels that tackle just about any terrain you throw at it. Let’s take a closer look at what this walker has to offer.

In our opinion the KneeRover Hybrid is the best all terrain knee walker you can buy in 2020.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

KneeRover Steerable Knee Walker Features

  • 12″ pneumatic tires; ideal for navigating all terrains
  • Tie-rod steering mechanism
  • Adjustable locking handbrake
  • Adjustable knee platform w/handlebars
  • Folding mechanism
  • 400-pound weight capacity
  • Ideal for users between 5′ and 6’5″ tall

Our Review of the KneeRover Knee Walker

The three-wheel design of this walker makes it look more like a tricycle than a mobility device, but its simple design is what makes it so easy to use.

If you’re recovering from an injury or surgery and have limited mobility as-is, you’ll appreciate the smart and easy-to-use design of this walker.

Maneuver Any Terrain

The KneeRover scooter features 12″ pneumatic tires that can maneuver a variety of terrains, including gravel, grass, sidewalks and dirt. The large tires eliminate issues caused by large gaps and cracks in the pavement or sidewalk, so you can travel safely.

Steer with Precision and Brake when Needed

The tie-rod steering system is similar to what you’d find on automobiles, and is something most other knee walkers don’t have. The great thing about this system is that it allows you to steer the knee scooter smoothly and precisely at all times.

Whether you’re moving through a crowded theater or the grassy lawn of the local park, you can easily and precisely steer this walker where you want to go.

The adjustable locking handbrake also makes it easy to stop when necessary, especially when traveling downhill. But it’s important to note that the brakes do not lock.

Adjustable to Fit Your Needs

The knee platform is fully adjustable, so you can so you can find just the right height for your needs. The platform’s height can be adjusted between 19″ and 22.5.”

The KneeRover can accommodate users between 5′ and 6’5″ in height and up to 400 pounds in weight.

The handlebar’s height can also be adjusted between 35″ and 47.”

Convenient Storage

A built-in mesh basket provides much-needed storage while you’re out and about on your knee walker. The basket is large enough for you to store all of your essentials, such as your wallet, purse, keys and small grocery items.

Comfortable Cushion

The 3″ padded cushion provides comfort, support and stability, while the handlebars ensure that you can steer properly. The cushion is contoured and ergonomically designed for maximum comfort.

Double Bar Construction for Maximum Durability

The KneeRover’s double bar construction allows for the utmost in durability while keeping the walker lightweight (27 pounds).

The high durability of this walker makes it a great option for people who are always on the go, or want to enjoy outdoor activities during their recovery.

Easily Portable

Some knee walkers are rigid, big and heavy. The KneeRover is different. Using the simple thumb-release lever, this scooter folds up for easy portability.

When folded, this knee walker can be placed in the trunk of a car or even the backseat for easy use when you reach your destination.

Ideal for a Variety of Mobility Issues

The KneeRover can be used to help people recover from a variety of mobility issues, including:

  • Leg surgery
  • Broken foot
  • Ankle surgery
  • Broken ankle
  • Leg amputation
  • Foot surgery
  • Broken leg
  • Foot injury
  • Ankle injury
  • Certain medical conditions

Pros

  • Easy to maneuver a variety of terrains
  • Comfortable and sturdy
  • Highly durable
  • Folds up for easy storage and transport
  • Easy to steer
  • Adjustable heights to fit your needs

Cons

  • Brakes do not lock

The only drawback with this scooter is that the brakes do not lock. But the large wheels and sturdy design of the KneeRover make it easy to overlook this feature. You’d be hard-pressed to find another scooter that can easily maneuver just about any terrain.

The KneeRover knee walker is a favorite among doctors and patients simply because of its sturdy design and ability to be used just about anywhere. Its light weight and durability make this walker a great investment for users who are recovering from injuries and surgeries. Click here to see other knee walkers we recommend.

Click here to purchase on Amazon

7 Mobility Aids Myths

elderly woman using a walking cane

Mobility aids are designed to help people get around safely and more efficiently. They can be used by a wide range of people of all ages and for a variety of reasons. However, like many other things in life, there are a number of stereotypes that surround mobility aid users. Many of these myths prevent people from using wheelchairs, walkers, canes and other mobility aids out of fear of what others might think.

Today, we’re going to debunk some of these myths.

1. People Who Use Wheelchairs Can’t Walk

It’s a common misconception that people who use wheelchairs – and most other mobility aids – can’t walk on their own. While this is true for some wheelchair users, many are able to walk unaided. They just may not be able to walk consistently or for long periods of time.

People use wheelchairs for a wide range of reasons. They may have multiple sclerosis, or obstructive pulmonary disease. Others, like a relative of mine, use a wheelchair because they had a heart transplant and have difficulty walking long distances.

Those who suffer from chronic pain may not be able to spend the day walking around the zoo.

Wheelchairs can help people with a wide range of ailments, and many of those ailments have absolutely nothing to do with the use of the legs.

Please don’t mock or ridicule someone for getting up out of their wheelchair and walking around. You have no idea what type of ailment they’re suffering with and how it affects their life. No one chooses to use a wheelchair.

2. Walkers are Only for the Elderly

Walkers have somehow become synonymous with the elderly, but just like with wheelchairs, walkers can be beneficial to people of all ages and who have a wide range of ailments.

Walkers can prevent users from falling and allow them to spend more time on their feet. They help prevent injuries for those who have balance issues or are unable to stand/walk for long periods of time.

No one is every too young or old to use any type of mobility aid – and that includes walkers. Do not let this myth stop you from using a walker if it would benefit your life. You may find that it can help you start enjoying the activities you used to love. You can find out more about walkers here.

3. People Who Use Wheelchairs That Aren’t Paralyzed are Just Lazy

One frustrating misconception about wheelchairs is that the users are lazy if they’re not paralyzed. There is nothing easy or simple about getting around in a wheelchair. It’s safe to say that anyone using a wheelchair would rather be able to get up and walk around just like everyone else.

Using a wheelchair can be a hassle, whether you’re getting around on your own or someone is pushing you around. Most doors don’t open automatically. Not all ramps are safe or easy to use. Not every walkway is wide enough to get through.

A day in a wheelchair is more challenging than spending an average day on foot. No one ever says: “I want to take it easy today. I think I’ll use a wheelchair to get around.”

Wheelchairs certainly have their benefits and help many people get around who otherwise wouldn’t have been able to. But it’s still challenging to get around in many parts of the world.

4. People in Wheelchairs Always Need Help

Many people assume that people in wheelchairs always need help. Strangers perpetuate this myth by offering help when it’s not needed. Although thoughtful and kind, those using wheelchairs are often quite capable of getting around on their own and managing their daily activities with minimal or no assistance.

If you see someone struggling, it’s certainly polite to offer assistance – regardless of their mobility level. But never assume that every person in a wheelchair needs help.

Most wheelchair users just want to be like everyone else and are capable of doing most things on their own.

5. Wheelchair Users Live Different Lives

It’s a common myth that people in wheelchairs are not able to live “normal” lives. Sure, they may have to adapt their lifestyles, but they generally do the same things that everyone else is doing.

They go to school, they go out with friends, they do chores around the house, they have children, and they feel emotions just like everyone else. Life may be different in some ways, but you’ll find that most wheelchair users carry on with their daily activities just like everyone else.

6. Mobility Aids Will Make Life More Challenging

On the contrary, mobility aids will make your life more accessible. There is no shame or harm in using a mobility aid in order to do the things you love doing.

Perhaps you can’t walk long distances because of chronic pain. A wheelchair or walker makes it possible for you to spend the day at the mall or at the zoo with your family. Without a mobility aid, you may not be able to enjoy this family activity.

7. Wheelchair Users are “Wheelchair-Bound”

Many people assume that people are confined to their wheelchairs, or are “wheelchair-bound.” Those who are paralyzed or have severe mobility issues may use their wheelchairs the majority of the time, but it’s important to remember that a wheelchair is an assistive device that helps people get around.

No one is confined to a wheelchair 24/7.

Many people only use wheelchairs when necessary, such as when they have to walk for a prolonged period of time.

Why Some Seniors Refuse to Use Walking Aids

walking aids and seniors

When seniors develop an injury or illness that affects their balance, walking aids can help them get up and moving again. Doctors may recommend using a cane or walker either permanently or until the condition resolves itself. While some seniors are happy to comply, others refuse to get on board.

Why do some seniors refuse to use walking aids?

Pride

Some seniors refuse to use walking aids because they firmly believe they can get along on their own just fine. Simply put, they allow their pride to cloud their judgement. This is a perfectly normal response.

No one wants to feel as if they are a burden. No one wants anyone to worry about them. Everyone has a desire to rise above the challenges they face.

It’s important to understand the patient’s mindset if pride is the reason for refusal. It might help to explain that there is no shame in using a walking aid. In fact, using one will make them more independent.

A Need to Remain Independent

Unfortunately, there’s a certain stigma attached to using a walking aid. Canes and walkers are often associated with aging, weakness and dependency.

As mentioned previously, it’s important to explain that using a walking aid actually improves independence. Without the aid, it may be difficult, impossible or unsafe to walk alone.

It’s also important to explain that walking aids actually improve independence and help maintain mobility. Most seniors find it easier to walk farther with more confidence and less fatigue using a walking aid.

If a senior refuses to use a walking aid, the risk of falling and being injured is much higher. Unfortunately, hip injuries are common injuries associated with falls (1 in 10 falls results in a hip fracture). Hip fractures can be deadly in seniors – 25% die within six months of the injury. About half of seniors with fall-related injuries are sent to nursing homes rather than their own homes after being discharged from the hospital.

Denial

It’s difficult for most people to accept the reality of aging. Some seniors are simply in denial about their need for a walking aid. They may claim that their loved ones are being overprotective and that they are just fine to carry on business as usual.

In this case, it can help to have a doctor or physical therapist explain the need for a cane or walker.

As a caregiver, it’s important to be sympathetic and understanding if your patient or loved one refuses to use a walking aid.

Explaining the importance and benefits of using walkers, canes and other aids may help sway the senior’s mind. They will also help you find the best walker for your needs and budget.

5 Strategies to Help Seniors Who Refuse to Use Walking Aids

When seniors refuse to use walking aids, it can be frustrating for caregivers and loved ones. It’s important to remember that seniors are still adults and should be allowed to make their own choices – as long as they are not putting themselves in danger.

You cannot force your loved one to use a walking aid, but you can do your best to persuade them to use one or help them come to the conclusion (on their own) that they need an aid.

1. Explain the Benefits of Using Walking Aids

Many seniors assume that using a cane or walker automatically means that they are giving up their independence.

For some, it is the first sign that they are truly getting older. That can be difficult to accept, particularly if the senior has a negative mindset. Shifting the senior’s perspective can be helpful.

Explain the benefits of using a walking aid:

  • You will be able to walk through the store on your own.
  • It will be much easier to navigate stairs and curbs.
  • You’ll be able to enjoy your walks through the park again.
  • You can still travel on your own.
  • You will reduce your risk of falling.

Rather than focusing on the stigma of having to use a walking aid, focus on the benefits.

2. Offer Alternatives

If walking aids are simply out of the question, ask the senior if he or she would rather live in an assisted living center or have a home care provider come to the house.

The harsh reality is that many seniors will require the help of an aid or will have to transition to an assisted living facility after a fall. The risk of falling is far greater without a mobility aid.

Hearing these less-than-desirable alternatives may make the use of mobility aids sound more appealing.

3. Talk about Options

Some seniors refuse to use a cane simply because a doctor or a loved one told them they needed one. Instead of telling the senior which mobility aid to use, provide options. Allow the senior to choose the aid. Maybe your loved one would prefer to use a quad cane over a walker or wheelchair.

Just make sure that the aid can accommodate the senior’s needs.

4. Be Patient and Understanding

Be patient and understanding when your loved one refuses to use a mobility aid. Listen to the senior. When he or she refuses to use a cane, ask why. The response may give you some clues as to how to approach to subject.

For example, if the senior is afraid of sticking out in the crowd or being judged, perhaps an umbrella cane or walking stick would be more desirable.

5. Get the Help of a Professional

Sometimes, the recommendation of a doctor or physical therapist is all it takes to convince a senior to use a mobility aid. Consult with the senior’s physician and make an appointment to discuss the senior’s mobility needs.

Knee Walkers for Kids and Shorter Adults

best small knee scooter

Knee scooters are becoming a very popular alternative for users with a lower leg injury. The days when crutches were the go-to option after surgery or an ankle, leg or foot injury are in the past. A great alternative to crutches, knee walkers, also called knee scooters or knee cruisers, are mobility aids that promote independence and healing.

Users can zip around from place to place, and limited upper body strength is needed.

Kids and small adults have had trouble finding knee walkers that fit their height, but this has since changed. Manufacturers are now offering options that allow smaller individuals to use knee walkers.

These options can accommodate users as small as 3’9″, so there are ample options for kids or small adults to use a knee walker.

A few of the many benefits to using a knee walker are:

  • Limited strain on the back
  • Fatigue is much less than on crutches
  • Arm pain and under-armpit pains are eliminated
  • Healthy, strong feet are used to propel forward
  • Handlebars allow for easy steering and more mobility
  • Turning and agility are promoted

Injured limbs are kept on the knee pad, allowing for maximum comfort and no risk of weight-bearing impact. Easy-to-transport, these mobility aids can be folded up for easy carry. You’ll also find that the handles often fold down and a basket is included.

Independence is promoted thanks to the knee walker, and the common three-wheel design offers superb navigation.

Supportive and comfortable, the handles allow for added stability while the weight-bearing leg also adds additional support. Since weight is kept off of the foot, ankle and knee joint, you’ll be able to heal faster while maintaining hip and quadricep strength in the injured knee.

Highly adjustable, the knee platforms often rise and lower for proper alignment.

Handlebars will also adjust, allowing for a person to remain upright and promoting good posture. Handles that are too low can cause a person to slouch, leading to increased back pain.

Specially designed knee walkers that are geared towards kids and small adults are the go-to option.

And there are two main models that are recommended by doctors and physical therapists.

Small Petite Adult KneeRover Jr. Review

kneerover junior review

KneeRover offers a small petite knee scooter that is perfect for smaller adults and kids. Ideal for anyone that has just had surgery or suffered an injury to their ankle, foot or leg, the KneeRover Junior is an all-terrain knee walker that offers versatility and comfort over crutches.

The scooter features:

  • Front basket
  • 9-inch tires
  • Tie-road steering
  • Adjustable knee platform
  • Adjustable handles
  • Stabilizer training wheel
  • 250-pound weight capacity
  • Height recommendation of 4’3″ – 5’9″

Designed for users 4’3″ – 5’9″ in height, the KneeRover Jr. is able to hold users up to 250 pounds and offers a stabilizer wheel for better control. The entire unit is adjustable, including the knee platform and the handles.

You’ll be able to adjust the knee walker to your height for comfort and to make your way over any terrain.

Versatile, the 9-inch wheels are large enough that they’ll have an easy time making it over:

  • Grass
  • Dirt
  • Gravel

And of course, you’ll be able to go over any indoor surfaces with ease.

Carrying items is difficult when you have two hands on the handles, so a basket has been added to the front of the knee walker for easy, on-the-go storage. The basket is detachable, and when you need to transport the knee walker, it will fold up neatly and fit in the trunk of a car.

It’s the ideal solution for anyone that’s been injured or has had surgery and needs to keep weight off of their leg.

The overall length of the unit is 29,” and handlebar height can be adjusted between 32″ and 38.” Rear brakes are available to keep the knee walker in place. There are also hand brakes to keep the unit stationary when needed.

Click here to view pricing and availability of the KneeRover Jr.

KneeRover Kids and Small Adult Knee Walker Review

KneeRover also offers a pediatric knee walker that is more stable and has four wheels. The walker is an alternative to crutches, and at the time is was designed, it was the world’s first pediatric knee walker.

Excellent mobility and steering make this knee walker a great fit for kids as well as smaller adults.

And it features:

  • Front basket
  • Four-wheel design
  • Adjustable brakes
  • 3-inch thick knee platform
  • Ergonomic hand grips
  • 160-pound weight capacity
  • Adjustable handlebar (26.5″ – 36″)
  • Knee support height of 13.5″ – 17.5″

Perfect for users that are 3’9″ – 5’6″ in height, this knee scooter has it all.

Weighing 18.2 pounds, the KneeRover is able to accommodate users up to 160 pounds and has a handlebar height range of 26.5″ – 36.” The front basket has a 9″ x 7″ x 6.5″ dimension and is also removable. You can store all of your items, from groceries to toys inside of the basket.

When the knee walker is not in use or needs to be transported, it can be folded up to 14″ in height. The handles fold down and the knee pad comes off to make the scooter as compact as possible.

Rear disc brakes and a handbrake allow the user to quickly stop the walker from moving if needed.

Rubber, contoured handles make grasping the handlebar easy. There is also 3-inch thick padding on the knee pad to allow for maximum comfort when in use.

Click here to view pricing and availability of the KneeRover Scooter Pediatric.